Sports

A New Dawn for Nigerian Sports in 2025

Published

10 months ago

December 31, 2024

As we welcome the year 2025, I am filled with hope and optimism for the future of sports in Nigeria. The establishment of the National Sports Commission (NSC) represents a pivotal moment in our sports framework, and I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to revitalizing our sports economy.

The allocation of over ₦78 billion in the 2025 budget is a clear testament to the government’s dedication to advancing sports in our nation. However, it is imperative that the NSC learns from past mistakes and moves away from ineffective practices that have hindered our progress.

To our sports administrators, I urge you to implement a governance framework that fosters professionalism and accountability within our sports federations. It is crucial that we address the challenges posed by weak federations, often dominated by individuals who manipulate rules to maintain their positions indefinitely.

Currently, many federations including the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the Nigeria Basketball Federation(NBBF), the Athletics Federation of Nigeria ( AFN), and many others are mired in dissent and internal conflict. The National Sports Commission (NSC) must prioritize addressing these issues as a first step. While we work towards securing Nigeria’s qualification for the next FIFA World Cup, we must also focus on cleansing our federations of ineffective leadership. Without this critical reform, the National Sports Commission risks becoming a monumental failure.

To our athletes, I encourage you to seize this opportunity to showcase your talents and bring pride to Nigeria. With the right support and infrastructure in place, I am confident that you will excel on the global stage.

To our dedicated fans, I ask that you continue to support our athletes and teams with the same passion and enthusiasm that you have always demonstrated. Your energy is a vital source of motivation for our athletes as they strive for success.

As we look to the future, I am reminded of the wise words of Nelson Mandela: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” Let us rise to the challenge of transforming Nigerian sports and make 2025 a year to remember.

Wishing you all a Happy New Year, and may God bless Nigerian sports!

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Sports

From Streets to Stardom: Unique Futbol Academy Scouting Program Inspires Ibadan’s Young Footballers

Published

8 hours ago

November 4, 2025

The Gleamer

Ibadan is buzzing with excitement as the Unique Football Academy Scouting Program kicks off, bringing together top European football clubs and talented young Nigerian players.

The four-day program, which commenced on Monday, features a delegation of four directors from prominent European teams, including two from Kosovo and one from India, led by renowned football agent Diego Martins from Portugal.

The scouting program aims to identify and select outstanding players who will be given opportunities to showcase their skills in Europe.

Successful players will be offered the chance to take their careers to the next level, with the organizers assuring them of opportunities abroad.

According to the Director of the program and founder of Unique Football Academy, Mr. Jelil Oladimeji, this is not the first time the academy has organized such an event.

“This is the 4th edition, and we are proud of the progress and impact we have made so far in terms of exposing our raw talent to the European market,” he said.

The program has already proven successful, with several players from previous editions going on to excel in European leagues. Some notable examples include Haruna Saleh with PAOK in Greece and Praisegod Emersons in Slovakia.

As the program continues, clubs are gearing up to exhibit their talents, and the future looks bright for Nigeria’s young football stars.

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